Dinner with Justin and his boys

Well, it was Christmas Eve, and my wife really wanted some Chinese food. Rather than going out, we invited another Jewish friend over along with his boys (his wife was out of town) to make an Asian-inspired menu. King salmon coated in sesame seeds, seared and then briefly baked; fried rice; steamed baby bok choy and a nice stir fry of vegetables.

• 2000 Dehlinger Pinot Noir 88 Points

  USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

  Mmm, such a pretty nose of strawberry, clove and the faintest hint of Pinot stink. The palate is bright and spicy with absolutely precise acids and an almost cedary spice, although this didn't seem to be wood induced. This is a vey clean and pretty wine.

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• 2002 Loring Wine Company Pinot Noir Clos Pepe Vineyard 94 Points

  USA, California, Central Coast, Sta. Rita Hills

  I had this a month ago at Thanksgiving, and it didn't leave much of an impression on me. However, with a nice piece of sesame-crusted salmon, fried rice and stir-fried vegetables this was absolutely rocking, OMFG! The color and intensity of this wine scream Syrah, yet the palate and nose just have to be Pinot, albeit on steroids. The nose is dense and dusky, still fairly closed with hints of pine needle and cherry. However, the palate is an explosion of spicy black cherry, tar, pomegranate, and some of the sweetest, purest Pinot fruit I have tasted. Tangy, sweet, sour, vibrant, extracted yet still lively, this wine is a paradox. Absolutely delicious!

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